U.S. Captures Venezuelan President Maduro; Trump Aims to Control Oil Reserves and Drug Traffic – 1/5/2026, 4:24:23 PM

The most significant global story is the U.S. military capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his subsequent appearance in U.S. federal court[1][2]. President Trump has stated that the United States is “in charge” of Venezuela and is vowing to temporarily “run” the country pending a transition[1][2]. Trump has also indicated he wants total access to Venezuela’s oil reserves and has not ruled out deploying U.S. troops on the ground[2].

Trump issued stark warnings to regional leaders, including Colombia and Cuba, characterizing Cuba’s economy as being on the verge of collapse[1]. He justified the military operation by claiming Maduro’s capture will lead to lower oil prices and reduce drug trafficking into the United States[1].

Following the U.S. operation, thousands of passengers have been stranded in the Caribbean due to flight cancellations[1]. Additionally, Trump wants U.S. oil companies to invest their expertise and resources in pumping Venezuelan crude, with Chevron currently being the only major U.S. oil company operating in the country[4].

In weather news, California continues to experience severe flooding, with crews clearing mud from highways as forecasters warn of additional thunderstorms[1]. The western United States is also facing significant mountain snow, while the Northeast is experiencing lighter snow with spring-like temperatures expected[1].